SPCA warns against virus

The local SPCA has issued a warning after news has emerged about a dangerous virus that dogs in Randfontein and its surrounding areas are carrying.

SPCA’s Janette Muller says, “It is called the canine parvovirus and it is highly contagious.

“It can be spread among dogs through direct and indirect contact and may result in fatalities. It has come to our attention that the canine parvovirus is spreading throughout Randfontein. We decided to warn residents against this and urge them to take precautionary measures if need be.

“We have heard of especially young dogs dying because of the virus and this worries us. Therefore we urge dog owners and those intending to get dogs to be extremely careful and have their dogs vaccinated. This will help prevent the virus from spreading if it is done in time. It also will help to prolong the lives of dogs already infected with the virus,” says Muller. She adds that the virus cannot be cured but it can be treated.

The symptoms are said to be severe diarrhoea with a foul smell and blood in the stool, vomiting, appetite loss, depression, fever and weaknesses. The herald did some research on the web and found that the disease is transmitted by oral contact with infected faeces. The virus can be carried on dogs’ hair and feet, as well as on contaminated objects such as shoes. When dogs lick the faecal matter off hair, feet or anything that had come into contact with infected faeces, they fall ill. Very often it is fatal.

The herald has spoken to a local veterinarian Hendrik Naude at Randfontein Animal Hospital who has confirmed the symptoms of the virus and says the treatment for diarrhoea in animals is the same as for humans.

“The infected dog with such symptoms will be put on an intravenous drip to prevent dehydration and will be given antibiotics against the infection,” Naude says.

“Other than that, the dog will be given vitamins to boost its immune system. We advise dog owners to take their dogs to a local vet to get vaccinated prior to contracting the disease. This will ensure that their immune system is strong enough to fight off the virus.

“Also I would advise that dogs be vaccinated at a tender age of six weeks; however vaccinations are recommended at six weeks, three months and four months,” says Naude.